Abuja Hosts 68th UN Tourism Commission for Africa Meeting, Shettima Highlights Importance of Public-Private Partnerships

Vice President Kashim Shettima officially opened the 68th meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa (CAF) in Abuja on Wednesday, signaling Nigeria’s commitment to bolstering the continent’s tourism sector. Representing President Bola Tinubu, Shettima welcomed key stakeholders from across Africa to the event, co-hosted by the Nigerian government and UN Tourism. The conference focuses on strategic policies, emerging trends, and collaborative efforts to maximize tourism’s contribution to sustainable development across the continent.

In his opening remarks, Vice President Shettima emphasized the vital role of strong partnerships between the government and the private sector in propelling the tourism industry forward. “As we chart a new course for tourism in Africa, one thing is sure: the government cannot build the sector alone; it needs a partnership with the private sector,” he stated. Shettima also highlighted the transformative power of technology in tourism, noting its ability to empower local entrepreneurs and foster community development. “The advent of technology has transformed tourism and its opportunities. Apart from its economic value, tourism has the potential to enhance local entrepreneurship and community development,” he explained.

Following the CAF meeting, a thematic conference will delve into the topic of “Boosting Social Impact and Education in Tourism via Innovation, AI, and Creative Industries in Africa.” This gathering will serve as a platform for stakeholders to explore best practices in tourism development, with a particular emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact.

The 68th UN Tourism Commission for Africa meeting represents a significant step towards promoting sustainable tourism growth in Africa and strengthening collaboration among key players in the sector. The focus on innovation, artificial intelligence, and the creative industries promises valuable insights and recommendations for shaping the future of tourism across the continent.